SARASOTA — The Sarasota Ballet recently was awarded $25,000 in grants from The Exchange for its 2026-2027 season, supporting two initiatives that advance artistic creation and expand access to dance education.
A $20,000 Organization Arts Grant will support company performances featuring the work of choreographer Gemma Bond in fall 2026, while a $5,000 Elizabeth Lindsay Arts in Education Grant will support complimentary School Matinees for area students.
The $20,000 Organization Arts Grant is specifically dedicated to company performances of Gemma Bond’s work. Bond has created work for major companies including The Royal Ballet and American Ballet Theatre, and her honors include the New York City Center Choreography Fellowship, Princess Grace Award, Clive Barnes Foundation Award, and Bessie Award.
Since 2021, The Sarasota Ballet has commissioned and performed the world premieres of five of Bond’s ballets. Presenting her work requires investment beyond artistic fees, including costumes, sets, lighting, music, additional rehearsal time, and travel and lodging for visiting artists and creative teams. The Exchange’s support helps make that investment possible and strengthens the ballet’s ability to bring internationally recognized work to Sarasota audiences.
The $5,000 Elizabeth Lindsay Arts in Education Grant will support The Sarasota Ballet’s complimentary School Matinees at FSU Center for the Performing Arts. Designed for students in grades two through four, the Matinee experience combines advanced curriculum materials aligned with Florida education standards, school bus transportation, and an educational live performance. The Matinees are part of the ballet’s 2026-2027 Dance education experience.
Since its founding in 1962, The Exchange has awarded $11 million in grants and scholarships supporting the arts in Sarasota and Manatee counties. More than 260 volunteers help power its nonprofit consignment operation, whose proceeds benefit local arts organizations and students pursuing higher education in the arts. The Sarasota Ballet and The Exchange share a commitment to strengthening the region’s cultural community through access, education, and artistic excellence.